Peer-assisted learning in accounting : a qualitative assessment

Since 2003, Macquarie University has operated a peer-assisted learning (PAL) program in several accounting units. This paper presents the results of a qualitative assessment of that program. The data were collected via a series of focus groups with student participants and student leaders involved in the peer-assisted learning program. The focus group discussions were transcribed and analysed. The results suggest that peer-assisted learning at Macquarie generates significant academic and non-academic benefits for all those involved. The analysis did, however, reveal a number of ways in which the program could be improved. Two areas stand out in this respect: first, it is essential that the program is suitably supervised by relevant academic staff. Second, the quality of the training given to PAL leaders is crucially important.8 page(s

Does peer-assisted learning improve student marks in accounting?

For the past several years students in accounting at Macquarie University in Sydney have been offered the chance to participate in a peer-assisted learning program. This paper conducts a statistical analysis of the relationship between participation in peer-assisted learning and student performance, as measured by the final mark achieved in the unit offering peer-assisted learning. The paper presents a methodology for conducting the analysis that represents an advance on that found in the extant literature on this topic. Using this superior methodology, the paper finds that participation in peer-assisted learning has a statistically and numerically significant effect on student marks.7 page(s

The development and evaluation of an online mindfulness based resilience training program to enhance psychological resilience among first responders

A growing body of research suggests resilience training can play an important role in creating mentally healthy workplaces and protecting the long-term wellbeing of workers. Emerging research describes positive outcomes from various types of resilience training programs (RTPs) across different occupational groups. First responders are a group for which proactive resilience training may be of particular benefit. In their work, first responders are often exposed to stressful circumstances and potentially traumatic events (PTEs), which may impact their overall resilience and wellbeing. Despite the potential benefits of RTPs to first responders, research in this area remains limited. This thesis aimed to address this gap by examining (a) what forms of RTPs lead to measurable changes in resilience and (b) the efficacy of a new online mindfulness-based RTP; The Resilience@Work (RAW) Mindfulness Program, which aimed to enhance psychological resilience among active first responders. In addressing these aims, the thesis presents the results of four linked studies, resulting in four peer-reviewed publications. These studies included; 1) a systematic review and meta-analysis to establish what form of RTPs lead to measurable changes in psychological resilience, 2) a cohort study to examine whether baseline resilience levels can predict future mental health symptomology among first responders, 3) a pilot study to evaluate the feasibility of the RAW Program among a group of active first responders exposed to PTEs and 4)  a cluster randomised controlled trial with 143 active first responders, to examine the efficacy of the RAW Program in bolstering psychological resilience.The thesis results provide evidence that psychological resilience is a modifiable risk factor for mental ill health amongst first responders. The outcomes also provide evidence for the feasibility and efficacy of online mindfulness-based resilience training programs to enhance individual psychological resilience in the workplace. The results contained in this thesis should inform the development of future online RTPs targeting similar first responder groups and other high-risk occupations. The results also endorse the workplace as a valuable setting for early, proactive interventions and the positioning of resilience training as an important part of an organisation’s overall strategy to develop a mentally healthy workplace

Learning in lectures : multiple representations

Lectures remain the lynchpin of mathematics teaching at university even with advances in information technology and access to the internet. This paper examines the requirements for learning mathematics and shows how important it is for lecturers to be aware of the different modes of presentation they are using. Ways to assist students to make the connections between different representations are considered, with particular reference to students whose first language is not English.9 page(s

Developing a mentally healthy workplace: a review of the literature

  EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Mental health is an increasingly important topic in the workplace.  It is estimated that, at any point in time, one in six working age people will be suffering from mental illness, which is associated with very high personal and economic costs.  Mental illness is one of the leading causes of sickness absence and long-term work incapacity in Australia and is one of the main health related reasons for reduced work performance. Individuals with mental health problems, and their caregivers, are some of the most stigmatised and marginalised groups in the workplace and often miss out on the many benefits good work can offer. There is increasing evidence that workplaces can play an important and active role in maintaining the mental health and well-being of their workers.  Every business has a legal and moral responsibility to provide a safe and fair workplace.  Creating a mentally healthy workplace has many benefts for both employers and employees.  A well designed workplace should support individual mental health and lead to reduced absenteeism, increased employee engagement and improved productivity.   The aim of this report is to provide a detailed review of the academic literature around what constitutes a mentally healthy workplace as well as to identify the practical means by which workplaces can enhance and support the mental health and wellbeing of employees. There is often a wide gap between what is published in academic journals and what occurs in workplaces. This literature review attempts to bridge this gap by bringing together academics from the University of New South Wales’ School of Psychiatry, the Black Dog Institute and the Australian School of Business to produce a report aimed at a non-academic business audience.  The following report is divided into three sections.  The first summarises the current research on what mental health is, how it is influenced by the workplace and what constitutes a mentally healthy workplace.  The second section focuses on the evidence for the effectiveness of specific workplace interventions or strategies.  The report concludes with a section that seeks to draw together the available evidence to provide practical recommendations for employers who wish to develop a more mentally healthy workplace